I have waited for what seems like an eternity to be near these beautiful beings….today, was simply…magical.
We trekked about 1 hour into the deep forest to find Agasha’s (means special) group of gorillas feeding, playing and socializing. i believe there are 13 in the group – we got to see about 9 or 10 – unbelievable! and so close! just don’t have even a sniffle and go near them, gorillas are very susceptible to our ailments.
In fact, I’m struck by the similarities – yes, we share 98% DNA, but when i looked into the eyes of one of these gorgeous, curious and docile beings, I saw the good in humanity. The speak, loudly, if you listen, you can hear them in the way they look at you, at life and at each other.
Words don’t quite describe…so i’ll let you have a peek at a few of the moments that struck my heart.
Later that afternoon, i visited the HQ of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – gorilla fund.org.
Veronica, who heads up the gorilla program introduced me to the staff, downloaded me on the projects and helped me see where they fit into the puzzle of gorilla conservation.
what i enjoy about DFGF – is that they have a holistic approach to conservation. They lead through research and monitoring and take no actions with the gorillas themselves. They study the eco-system, the environment and of course the gorillas themselves. I am inspired, and appreciative of the passion each staff member has for the projects they are working on. Veronica, living in Rwanda as an expat for 12 years is in her “dream job.” She explains to me that this is what she was meant to do…and it’s obvious.
what a wonderful woman – making a difference in the world with a smile.
after a glass of wine at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
How fortunate i am to have Veronica in my life.
I think our creator made a mistake adding that last 2%!